M2 · Health Complexity
Health Needs and Barriers in Healthcare Access
From isolated diagnoses to structural complexity.

duration

60 minutes

screens

25 steps
In this module, you will learn how health needs present in people experiencing homelessness, and why they are often more complex, interconnected, and difficult to address than in the general population. We will explore a wide range of physical health conditions—including chronic diseases such as cardiovascular illness, diabetes, and respiratory conditions—as well as infectious diseases like tuberculosis, HIV, hepatitis, and skin disorders. You will also examine the role of mental health disorders and substance use in shaping overall health.
As you go through this module, you will realise that these conditions rarely occur in isolation. Instead, they form patterns of multimorbidity and complexity that require a different way of thinking about care. You will also begin to understand that access to healthcare is not only a medical issue, but is strongly influenced by structural barriers—including stigma, administrative requirements, financial constraints, and everyday logistical challenges.
YOU WILL DEVELOP THE SKILLS TO

Recognise the full spectrum of physical and mental health conditions in people experiencing homelessness,

Explain multimorbidity and understand its implications for care systems,

Identify barriers that limit access to healthcare,

Evaluate innovative models of care delivery, such as street medicine, outreach, and mobile clinics,

Analyse ethical dilemmas that arise when providing care to marginalised populations.

This module invites you to look beyond individual diagnoses and consider the broader conditions that shape health and access to care.
As you begin, ask yourself:
What does equitable healthcare look like when access itself is one of the main challenges?